Nation
THE STATES
Adamawa
Adamawa acting Chief Judge, Justice Batimawus Lawi, has fixed April 3 for ruling in the case challenging the impeachment of former Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Adamawa House of Assembly.
The impeached speaker and deputy, Alhaji Sadiq Ibrahim and Mrs Wale Fwa respectively, had instituted the suit against the House, the new Speaker, Alhaji Ahmadu Fintiri and his deputy, Mr Laori Kwamoti.
The plaintiffs had asked the court to declare their removal in December 2011 as null and void.
Lawi fixed April 3 for ruling on Thursday, in spite of the absence of counsel to the plaintiffs, Mr Kanu Agabi (SAN), who did not show up nor send representation during the court’s sitting on Wednesday.
Agabi was to appear and reply to submissions already made during previous sittings by counsels to the respondents, but after waiting in vain, the respondents called on the court to strike off the case.
Bauchi
The Bauchi State Office of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) has donated 60 ambulances, tri-cycles and motorcycles to the Bauchi State Government to boost health care services in the state.
The Focal Person of the MDGs Office in the state, Alhaji Sambo Jumberi, made the disclosure on Thursday in Bauchi while handing over the items to the state’s Deputy Governor, Alhaji Sangir Saleh.
Jumberi said the MDGs had earlier provided 40 ambulances to 40 healthcare centres and clinics in the state and had also provided 200 solar-propelled boreholes to some healthcare institutions.
He said the MDGs had also constructed 40 ten-bed-capacity health centres while some dispensaries were renovated.
Jumberi said the MDGs had similarly, provided drugs and equipment to 57 primary health centres in the state while 600 units of latrines were constructed in some rural areas to improve sanitary conditions of communities.
Borno
The Borno Police Command, on Sunday announced the arrest of 11suspects involved in an attack on Mobile Police Base, Bama.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Mr Samuel Tizhe, told newsmen in Maiduguri that one of the attackers was killed and several explosive devices were recovered.
“Some gun men launched an attack on a mobile police base in Bama around 5.30pm. The gallant officers successfully repelled the attack.
“One person was killed and 11 others arrested. arms and several improvised explosive devise (IED)s were recovered from them,” Tizhe said.
FCT
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Alhaji Abdullahi Dikko, said that only 10 countries out of the 23 West and Central African Regional Countries paid the 10,000 euros annual contribution for capacity building in the World Customs Organisation (WCO).
Dikko made the announcement while presenting the report of the Eighth Meeting of the Committee of Experts of the West and Central Africa (WCA) Region of the WCO in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
Dikko, who is also the vice-chairman of the WCA Region of the WCO was represented by Deputy Comptroller-General of the NCS, Mr Manassah Jatau, at the meeting of the committee of experts.
He said that the payment of the annual contribution was adopted during the 15th conference of customs director generals of WCA in Bamako, Mali in 2010.
Gombe
Executive Secretary, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Ado Mohammed, has commended Gombe State for having the lowest maternal and child mortality rate in the North East zone of the federation.
Mohammed gave the commendation at the launching of the free polio programme in Gombe on Saturday.
He also applauded the state for ensuring that there was no recorded case of polio since 2009.
Mohammed said that Gombe State was surrounded by states with cases of polio, charging the state to maintain the tempo.
He said the success achieved in Gombe State was as result of the government’s commitment as well as the effort put in by other development partners like WHO, UNICEF and other non-governmental bodies.
Kaduna
The newly deployed Police Commissioner in Kaduna State, Mr Mohammed Abubakar, said on Saturday that the gunmen who attacked villagers in Nayida Talakkwacha were on reprisal mission.
The gunmen, who attacked the villagers in the Chickun Local Government Area of the state, killed no fewer than 10 persons, including a pastor, injuring five others.
Abubakar, who addressed reporters in Kaduna after visiting the scene of the incident, said the attackers, were relations of victims of the April 2011 post election crisis.
“ The attack appeared to be a reappraisal by relations of those who were victims of the post-general election crisis in April 2011 in Kaduna State that lost their lives and property.”
Kano
In its efforts to reduce the emission of poisonous substances such as ‘dioxin’ and ‘furan’, the Federal Ministry of Environment has organised a training programme for scavengers and waste handlers in Kano State.
Dioxin is a highly toxic compound produced as a byproduct in some manufacturing processes.
Furan is a group of colourless, volatile, heterocyclic organic compounds containing a ring of four carbon atoms and one oxygen atom, obtained from wood tar used in nylon and tanning production.
The Project Manager and Technical Director, ‘Less Burnt for a Clean Earth Project’ in the ministry, Mr Idi Maleh, disclosed this in Kano in an interview with newsmen.
He said that the trainees were drawn from the Kano Waste Management and Sanitation Board, Kano State Ministry of Environment and eight local government areas in the state.
He said that the training was necessitated by the health implications of getting in contact with dioxin and furan.
Kogi
The Kogi State Governor, Capt. Idris Wada, has approved the construction of two additional hostel blocks at the state-owned Polytechnic in Lokoja.
The Rector of the school, Prof. Mathew Ajibero, made the announcement on Saturday in Lokoja at the sixth matriculation ceremony of the polytechnic, saying that the hostels would be constructed this year at the Itakpe and Lokoja campuses of the institution.
He said that the governor had also approved the release of three new transformers and roll-on roll-off bins for the campuses.
Ajibero, who recalled that the governor made the approval during his maiden visit to the main campus about two weeks ago, said that the State Government had agreed to undertake the construction of new road network and water projects.
Kwara
A fish farmer, based in Ilorin, Mr Babatunde Daniels, has told the Kwara Government to partner fish farmers to boost fish production and create employment for residents of the state.
He made the call on Thursday in Ilorin in an interview with newsmen.
Daniels said the call became necessary because “fish farming is a lucrative venture that can provide jobs for the unemployed in the state, adding that “it takes little to start the business”.
He said that fingerlings in fresh water could get matured within a month and ready for sale.
The fish farmer said that proper training in fish farming with the support of the State Government, could create an enabling environment for jobless youths not only to be gainfully employed and self-sufficient but also garner experience on fish production.
He expressed the resolve of his organisation to liaise with the government in training people on how to produce fish, grass cutters, rabbits and pigs.L
Lagos
The Secretary of the State of Missouri, U.S., Ms Robin Carnahan, has identified women empowerment as a key factor for national development.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Carnahan said that any country seeking economic advancement must invest in the wealth of its women.
“Culture, child care, cash and confidence are some of the factors limiting women from achieving their full potential.’’
Carnahan said that women in top positions, be they political or corporate, must encourage women to participate in nation building.
She also urged women to train and mentor others as well as work with men and embrace technological advancements.
Niger
More than N27.7 billion pension has been paid by the Niger government under the Pay-As-You-Go and the Contributory Pension schemes in the state from May 2007 to December 2011, an official said.
Mr Benu Yahaya , Director General of of the state’s Pension Board told newsmen in Minna that N15.3 billion went into the Pay-As-You-Go pension scheme, while N12.4 billion was for the Contributory Pension Scheme.
He said the board had also settled the outstanding pension liability of N1.4 billion inherited from the previous administration in the state.
The director general added that the government had paid N453 million arrears of the 142 per cent pension increase, which came into effect in 2000.
Yahaya, who said the government had since 2007 domesticated the Pension Reform Act of 2004, also disclosed that an average of N200 million was being spent monthly on pension payment.
The amount, he explained, covered the pension of 12,121 people on the pension pay roll of the state government and the 25 local councils.
He said more than 50,000 civil servants in the state had registered with Pension Fund Administrators (PFA), adding that the government had been regular and up to date in the release of the pension funds.
Plateau
Plateau government has assured the NYSC batch “A” corps members posted to the state of adequate security during orientation and their places of primary assignment.
Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Lohfa Bako, who represented Gov. Jonah Jang, gave the assurance on Thursday in Jos, during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2012 batch “A” corps members.
Bako said that adequate security arrangement had been made to ensure their safety during the service year.
The commissioner urged the Corps members not to entertain any fear as all hands were on deck to ensure their safety.
He, however, cautioned them on the need to be security conscious.
Plateau NYSC Coordinator, Mr Maram Maful, in his speech, said that the scheme, in collaboration with the various security agencies, had mapped out strategies to secure the corps members.
He commended the Plateau government for the support the scheme had received, and especially for the work going on at the permanent site in Mangu Local Government Area.
Our correspondent reports that 508 corps members, comprising 309 males and 199 females, were registered on camp.
The Head of the Department of Anatomy at the University of Port Harcourt’s College of Health Sciences, Prof Gabriel Sunday Oladipo, has underscored the urgent need for Nigeria to develop a comprehensive forensic science infrastructure, warning that the nation’s ability to investigate and solve crime is being hampered by lack of scientific data and systems.
In his inaugural lecture titled, “Man: Fearfully Different, Wonderfully Made,” delivered as part of the 207th Inaugural Lecture Series of the university, Prof Oladipo highlighted that while no two individuals are exactly the same, the country currently lacks the robust systems needed to collect and manage biological and anthropometric data that could support criminal investigations.
He explained that the natural variations among humans — from fingerprints to physical measurements — form the foundation of personal identification in forensic work. These biological differences, he said, are essential for distinguishing one person from another, especially in the context of criminal investigations where clarity of identity can mean the difference between justice and impunity. Without this scientific foundation, he argued, law enforcement agencies lack a critical tool in the fight against crime.
Experts have noted that Nigeria’s forensic science capacity has historically lagged behind needs, with only a few forensic facilities available and many law enforcement agencies struggling to access or use scientific evidence effectively. One review of the state of forensic investigation in Nigeria found that outdated facilities and limited adoption of modern forensic methods have left many cases unsolved or poorly investigated, even as crime rates rise across the country.
In Lagos, efforts to improve forensic capabilities have focused on DNA analysis, with the Lagos State DNA Forensic Centre — the first of its kind in West Africa — providing critical support for criminal investigations and helping to identify human remains, link related cases, and assist with paternity testing. However, such initiatives are yet to be replicated at a national scale, leaving many regions without access to these vital scientific tools.
Prof Oladipo’s lecture went beyond academic theory to propose concrete actions. He called for the establishment of a National Institute of Forensic Science responsible for creating and managing a nationwide anthropometric and forensic data bank. This repository, he stressed, would significantly enhance Nigeria’s capacity to track crime, assist law enforcement agencies, and improve the administration of justice by providing reliable scientific evidence for investigative and legal processes.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening research and training in forensic science. Many Nigerian universities currently lack the funding and infrastructure to offer complete undergraduate or postgraduate programs in areas such as forensic anthropology, DNA analysis, and crime scene investigation, a gap that forces aspiring experts to rely on collaborations with institutions abroad. By fostering a research-friendly environment and securing greater support from both government and private sectors, Nigerian institutions could produce homegrown experts capable of advancing forensic science in the country.
Awareness of forensic science’s role in criminal justice remains low among the general public and even among some security professionals. Studies have shown that a significant portion of Nigerians are unfamiliar with basic forensic concepts or the existence of tools such as DNA profiling and national forensic databases — tools that are common features of criminal justice systems in countries like South Africa and the United Kingdom.
Prof Oladipo also urged regular training and retraining programs to keep forensic practitioners updated with evolving scientific methods. According to him, continuous professional development is critical in a field where technological advances — from biometric databases to digital forensic tools — are transforming how crimes are investigated and solved.
The lecture was attended by academics, students, and professionals drawn to the intersection of science, identity, and justice, all of whom heard the professor make a compelling case for scientific innovation and institutional reform as central to Nigeria’s effort to contain crime and strengthen its justice system.
The event not only showcased Prof Oladipo’s expertise in human anatomy and forensic psychology but also positioned forensic science as a strategic national priority — one that could bring clarity to investigations, support victims and their families, and ultimately enhance public safety across Nigeria.
The University of Port Harcourt Women Association (UPWA) on Thursday staged a vibrant and memorable edition of its Annual Inter-House Sports Competition at the University of Port Harcourt Sports Village, drawing an impressive turnout of pupils, parents, staff and invited guests.
The event, organised by the UPWA International Group of Schools, brought together children from the pre-nursery, nursery and secondary sections in a colourful celebration of youth athleticism, discipline and teamwork. The arena came alive with cheers and excitement as pupils, clad in their various house colours, marched in a ceremonial parade before proceeding to compete in a wide range of track and field events, relays, novelty races and other team-based activities designed to promote physical fitness and healthy competition.
Declaring the competition open, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari Georgewill, commended UPWA for sustaining a tradition that continues to nurture young talents beyond the classroom. He noted that sports remain a critical component of holistic education, helping to build resilience, confidence, leadership skills and social interaction among children.
In her remarks, the President of UPWA, Professor Udeme Georgewill, expressed appreciation to parents, teachers and members of the organising committee for their dedication and sacrifice in ensuring the success of the programme despite prevailing economic challenges. She described the event as a reflection of unity and collective effort within the school community.
“This is the first time White House is emerging overall winner, and that shows remarkable improvement and great sportsmanship,” she said. “We all had fun. It is not easy putting an event like this together considering the economic situation, but we are grateful to the parents for being part of this journey. The excitement everywhere is truly heartwarming.”
The competition featured spirited participation from the various houses, including Purple House, San Chicago Red House and White House, with pupils demonstrating strength, speed, coordination and teamwork. Parents and supporters filled the stands, cheering enthusiastically and adding colour to the spectacle, while teachers ensured orderliness and safety throughout the proceedings.
Professor Georgewill emphasized that the true essence of sports lies not merely in winning trophies but in participation and personal growth. “Sports is not just about winning. It is an avenue for growth, discipline and opportunity. The fact that a child is able to participate is already a win. Losing this year does not mean you cannot win next year. Keep trying,” she encouraged, urging pupils to see both victory and defeat as stepping stones to greater achievements.
She further observed that while there are many competing interests in the Nigerian sports sector, consistent grassroots investment remains essential for discovering and nurturing future champions.
The colourful ceremony culminated in medal presentations, trophy awards and group photographs, with UPWA executives, including Vice President I, Professor Adedamola Onyeaso, joining the participating teams to celebrate the day’s achievements.
The annual inter-house sports competition continues to stand as one of UPWA’s flagship events, reinforcing its commitment to balanced education, character formation and the promotion of healthy lifestyles among its pupils.
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